The language of addiction: De- (stigmatize, medicalize, and criminalize) it

Abstract

People who use drugs or substances experience significant stigma and discrimination in society, including in healthcare settings, where providers often disrespect them. Public attitudes and perceptions toward people with substance use disorder (SUD) are shaped by how language is used to label and order individuals with those conditions. Stigmatizing language discourages persons with SUD from seeking treatment or utilizing harm reduction services. This paper critically reflects on and discusses language use in addiction care. I examine how harmful language use could impact healthcare and service uptake among people with SUD. I call on researchers, service providers, and policymakers to de-stigmatize, de-medicalize, and de-criminalize language use in addiction care.